PORT TOWNSEND — The state ferry system will launch a pilot reservations system on the Port Townsend/Keystone ferry route starting May 19 to address the route’s increased ridership needs this summer.
City and business leaders are highly supportive of the reservation program, which they see as a way to encourage visitors downtown.
The reservation system comes at a time when the route has just one 50-car ferry, the Steilacoom II, instead of two larger Steel Electric ferries, limiting service on the route.
State Transportation Secretary Paula Hammond pulled the Steel Electrics from service Nov. 20 after corroded hulls were discovered.
“The Port Townsend/Keystone reservations program is designed to make the best possible use of the limited space on the 50-car ferry serving that route,” Ferries Division Assistant Secretary David Moseley said.
